Condemnation for recent ASB in local estates in Downpatrick.
South Down MLA Emma Rogan and Downparick Cllr Oonagh Hanlon have voiced concerns about a recent attack on the local Downpatrick Fire crew.
The crew were responding to a call and on entering into the estate, a missile was thrown at the appliance. It hit the windscreen and could well have shattered it injuring the crew. It has been described as ‘’too close for comfort’’.
Emma Rogan said: “This is just disgraceful behaviour. Fire personnel should be free from attacks when responding to calls from the public. Our local teams work very long hours and it most cases around a full-time job also.
“They do not need this added pressure of the threat of attack from young people. Recently the level of ASB has been lower than previous years but my concern would be that if these sort of incidents are not dealt with in a proactive manner, we could see this escalate.
“I have spoken to local PSNI Inspector and welcome his assurances that greater focus will be given to the local estates to stop this behaviour escalating as we approach the summer months.”
Downpatrick councillor Oonagh Hanlon said: “It must have a been a very stressful and frightening experience for the local crew. These acts are thoughtless acts and this type of behaviour serves no purpose.
“This sort of behaviour ultimately puts the wider community at risk should the Fire Service decide it is unsafe for their crew to enter these areas especially at night. A proacactive, multi agency approach will be needed to stop this behaviour. I have spoken to Down PCSP, PSNI and local NIiFRS Commander and we will be meeting with them to discuss how we can work together along with other agencies to address these ASB issues.
“Ultimately, however, it is parents who need to ensure they know where their children are and what they are doing. I would call on people to remain vigilant and if the have any information to pass on to the PSNI using the 101 number or phoning Crimestoppers on 0800555111.”
